Tray-and-Sleeve Package with Deflectable Locking Tab
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current product packaging designs face challenges in achieving child-resistant and senior-friendly configurations while also considering esthetic appeal, ease of use, manufacturing cost, and efficient use of space, as they need to balance strength, durability, and regulatory compliance.
Innovation Solution
A tray-and-sleeve package with a resiliently deflectable locking tab and rear locking slot mechanism that allows the tray to be securely locked and easily released, preventing children from accessing contents while being easily opened and closed by seniors, and featuring a release tab that allows the tray to be pulled out for access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent child access, then child-resistance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into separate functional components: a locking tab on the tray, a locking slot on the sleeve, and a release tab on the sleeve. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while maintaining overall simplicity of the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking tab is designed to automatically engage with the locking slot when the tray is inserted into the sleeve, providing self-locking functionality without requiring additional actuators or complex mechanisms. The resilient nature of the locking tab enables automatic engagement and disengagement.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent child access, then child-resistance is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is integrated into the existing tray and sleeve structures through segmentation, with the locking tab formed as part of the tray and the locking slot formed as part of the sleeve. This eliminates the need for separate locking components and reduces manufacturing steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism utilizes the resilient properties of the tray material, changing the physical state of the locking tab from rigid to flexible. This allows the locking function to be achieved through material properties rather than additional components, reducing manufacturing cost.
3Volume of moving object
If the package is made compact to save space, then volume is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The release tab serves as an intermediary element that mediates between the user's manual input and the locking tab's engagement with the locking slot. By providing a dedicated release interface, the mechanism enables easy operation despite the compact package design.
Solution Approach 2:
The release mechanism operates in a different dimension by using downward deflection of the release tab to achieve lateral movement of the locking tab out of the locking slot. This dimensional transformation allows compact packaging while maintaining ease of operation.
4Strength
If more material is used to improve strength and durability, then package strength is improved, but loss of substance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking tab utilizes the resilient properties of the tray material, changing the physical state from rigid to flexible. This allows the existing material to perform multiple functions (containment and locking) without requiring additional material, reducing both weight and material usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The tray material serves multiple functions: it provides structural containment for the product and simultaneously forms the locking tab for security. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate locking components, reducing overall material usage while maintaining strength.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The package effectively meets regulatory standards for child-resistance and senior-friendliness, provides secure locking and easy access, and is cost-effective with minimal material usage, allowing for compact design and efficient packaging.
Implementation Method 1
A resiliently deflectable locking tab extends from the tray. The locking tab and rear locking slot are shaped and positioned such that when the tray is seated in its closed position, the tray locking tab extends through the sleeve locking slot
Implementation Method 2
The sleeve is further provided with a resiliently deflectable release tab that is positioned such that, when the tray is in its closed position, the locking tab is releasable from the rear locking slot by downward deflection of the release tab
Data Source
AI summary
A package includes a tray and a sleeve. The tray is slidable within the inner cavity between a closed position and an open position. A side panel of the sleeve is provided with a rear locking slot. A resiliently deflectable locking tab extends from the tray. The locking tab and rear locking slot are shaped and positioned such that when the tray is seated in its closed position, the tray locking tab extends through the sleeve locking slot, locking the tray into position. Downward deflection of the locking tab causes it to be released from the rear locking slot.